Flirting With Pride & Prejudice

Fresh Perspectives on the Original Chick-lit Masterpiece

One of fiction's most well-loved novels, this 19th-century classic continues to capture the hearts of contemporary readers with its notions of marriage, dating, and romance. Leading authors in the area of women's literature and romance contribute to this fresh collection of essays on everything from Lydia's scandalous marriage to George Wickham to the female-dominated Bennett household and the emphasis placed on courtship and marriage. Contributors include Jo Beverly, Alesia Holliday, Mercedes Lackey, Joyce Millman, and Jill Winters. This compilation is an excellent companion for both those new to Jane Austen and well-versed Austen-philes.

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G K Chesterton:
"Jane Austen was born before those bonds which (we are told) protected women from the truth were burst by the Brontes or elaborately untied by George Eliot .... Jane Austen may have been protected from truth: but it was precious little of truth that was protected from her."

It's a collection of essays and several short stories that explore various points and themes from P&P. The popular writers and academics who wrote these pieces all agree that Austen remains relevant; but, of course, with so many points of view and varying skills, some pieces are better than others. Some make their point, some miss the mark, others are downright silly.

Spotting this collection of essays on my favorite book, I was exited to discover what other Jane lovers think of it. Soon I found myself turning the pages of a scintillating look inside what I always knew about Jane Austen ? she was the first one to put on paper what we all know about life and romance in a way that keeps us all coming back. Everything is here ? sisterly affection, family scandal, rogues, misunderstandings, and above all true love. Chapters themes are thoughtful and flirty and ready for discussions. Movie adaptations are reviewed, and in some cases panned, with comparisons of Mr. Darcy! Even poor forgotten sister Mary is brought into the discussion. A veritable feast for the avid Jane reader ? read on!